In the works: Supersonic Business Jets

Supersonic Aerospace (SAI) and Aerion continue their quest to bring a speedy yet environmentally friendly supersonic business jet to market. SAI founder Michael Paulson told AIN, “Our preliminary design work is essentially complete and we are working on certification and regulatory matters [and] on establishing our international consortium to build and support the aircraft.” SAI said it has spent about $50 million on QSST-related engineering thus far and will need to spend another $50 million for phase 2, the preliminary design phase, after which, he said, SAI “would confirm production and delivery dates.” The company estimates there is a market for 244 to 518 of its Quiet Supersonic Transports over a 15-year period.

Aerion is still in discussion with “major aircraft manufacturers” to produce its supersonic business jet. “Discussions with potential partners have elicited strong interest,” said vice chairman Brian Barents. Aerion estimates that development will cost $2.2 billion (2005 dollars) and take five years.